Did you realize that high blood pressure can also increase your chance of developing age-related hearing loss?
Age-related hearing loss normally starts to manifest in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. You probably won’t even notice your progressing hearing loss even though it’s an irreversible condition. Typically, it’s the result of many years of noise-related damage. So how is hearing loss caused by hypertension? The blood vessels inside of your ears and your blood vessels in general can be damaged by high blood pressure.
What is blood pressure (and why is it important?)
The blood that flows through your circulatory system can move at various speeds. When the blood moves quicker than normal it means you have high blood pressure. Over time, this can result in damage to your blood vessels. These blood vessels that have been harmed lose their flexibility and frequently become blocked. A blockage can contribute to a stroke or other cardiovascular issues. Healthcare professionals usually pay very close attention to a patient’s blood pressure because of this.
What constitutes high blood pressure?
Here are the basic ratings for high blood pressure:
- Normal: 120/8o
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80-89
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140 or Higher/90 or higher
A hypertensive crisis occurs when your blood pressure goes over 180/120. Immediate treatment is needed when this occurs.
How can hypertension cause hearing loss?
Hypertension can cause widespread damage to your blood vessels, including the blood vessels in your ear. Typically, the nerves in your ear will also be compromised along with these blood vessels. Likewise, high blood pressure can negatively affect the stereocilia in your ear (the little hairs responsible for picking up vibrations). These stereocilia are not capable of self-regeneration, so any damage they sustain is irreversible.
This means that damage to the ears, regardless of the cause, can cause irreversible hearing loss. Research indicates that individuals who have normal blood pressure readings tend to have a much lower prevalence of hearing loss. Individuals who have hearing loss are more likely to have higher blood pressure. The findings of the research make clear that keeping your blood pressure under control can help you prevent the impacts of hearing loss.
What does high blood pressure make your ears feel like?
In most cases, high blood pressure is a symptomless condition. So-called “hot ears” aren’t a sign of high blood pressure. What are hot ears? It’s a symptom where your ears feel warm and grow red. Normally, it’s a sign of changes in blood flow related to emotions, hormones, and other non-blood pressure-associated issues.
High blood pressure can sometimes worsen symptoms of tinnitus. But how can you tell if tinnitus is from high blood pressure? The only way to know for certain is to talk to your doctor. In general, however, tinnitus is not a sign of high blood pressure. There’s a reason that high blood pressure is frequently referred to as “the silent killer”.
Most people find out they have high blood pressure when they go in for an annual exam and have their vitals taken. It’s a good reason to make sure you don’t miss those regular appointments.
How is high blood pressure treated?
Typically, there are a number of factors that contribute to high blood pressure. That’s why lowering blood pressure may call for a variety of approaches. In general, you should work with your primary care provider to lower your blood pressure. Here’s what that management could entail:
- Take medication as prescribed: In some instances, high blood pressure can’t be managed with diet and exercise alone. Even though diet and exercise can be helpful, there are some cases where it will be necessary to use blood pressure medication as prescribed to control hypertension.
- Diet changes: Eating a Mediterranean diet can help you reduce blood pressure. Essentially, stay away from foods like red meats and eat more vegetables and fruits.
- Get more exercise: Getting regular exercise (or simply getting your body moving on a regular basis) can help reduce your overall blood pressure.
- Avoid sodium: Keep the salt intake to a minimum. Avoid processed food when you can and find lower salt alternatives if you can.
A treatment plan to address your blood pressure can be formulated by your primary care physician. Can hearing loss from high blood pressure be reversed? In some circumstances the answer is yes and in others not so much. You may be able to restore your hearing to some extent by reducing your blood pressure, according to some evidence. But it’s also likely that at least some of the harm incurred will be permanent.
Your hearing will have a better chance of recovering if you address your blood pressure quickly.
How to safeguard your hearing
While lowering your blood pressure can undoubtedly be good for your health (and your hearing), there are other ways you can safeguard your hearing. Here are several ways:
- Wear hearing protection: Earmuff, earplugs, and even noise canceling headphones can help you protect your hearing.
- Avoiding loud venues and events: Try to steer clear of overly loud noises when you can, as these noises can cause damage to your ears. If these places aren’t completely avoidable, limit your time in loud environments.
- Talk to us: Having your hearing screened regularly can help you protect your hearing and identify any hearing loss early.
We can help you preserve your hearing into the future, so make an appointment as soon as possible.